On Sunday at 20:45 local time, the PalaTerme arena in Montecatini Terme will host the basketball derby between Montecatini and Pistoia, returning after an 18-year absence. The match in the A2 championship will be broadcast with the assistance of Rai cameras, bringing together the province’s main basketball teams at the renovated facility on via Cimabue.
Arena Capacity Capped as Electrical Issues Halt Expansion
The arena’s capacity is set at 2,820 spectators. The Municipal Commission for Public Entertainment decided not to proceed with an expansion to 3,980 seats following a lengthy meeting, with the electrical system reported as the deciding factor. Consequently, 600 tickets were virtually reserved for the Pistoia fanbase, comprising 400 in the visiting sector and 200 in the tribune section behind the visiting team’s bench. Lo spicchio degli ospiti è stato preso d’assalto dalla tifoseria organizzata biancorossa, registrando il tutto esaurito in appena tredici minuti, con prevendite aperte online via Ticketone, alla segreteria del PalaTerme, all’edicola Trenta e Lode e al Garage Via Nova. Because geographic screening during presale was not possible, fans are free to purchase tickets in other sections, creating a likelihood of supporters sitting side by side.
Authorities Expect Normal Security for Sold-Out Crowd
Local authorities do not consider the match a high-risk event for public order. A coordination table held at the thermal police station confirmed that the security service will be calibrated for a sold-out crowd without requiring extra reinforcements. Regarding logistics, the evening time slot rules out train travel, meaning all attendees will travel using private vehicles. Fans can follow the action live on Rai or attend the venue at via Cimabue.
